1997 Fifty Pences

Obverse of 1997 Silver Proof Fifty Pence

Reverse of 1997 Silver Proof Fifty Pence

1997 Silver Proof Fifty Pence in Presentation Box

New Smaller Design
In 1997, fifty pence coins were issued in a new, smaller size.
The diameter was reduced from 30mm to 27.3mm, and the weight reduced also.

Part of a Continuing Process
This was part of a continuing process of adjusting the size and weight of the circulating coins of the UK, partly to reflect relatively lower values because of inflation. This has also been a world-wide trend.

1990 - 1997
The bronze coins had been drastically reduced in size and weight at decimalisation. the fivepences were reduced in 1990, the tenpences in 1992, and now it was the turn of the fifty pence coins.
This year, 1997, the two pound coins were also reduced in size, although previously they had never circulated in any great quantities.

Both Sizes Issued
During 1997, both sizes of fifty pence were issued, as illustrated. Special collectors versions of both types were produced.

Obverse
All 1997 coins carried the third portrait obverse, introduced in 1985, and designed by Ralph David Maklouf, FRSA.
With the inscription:
ELIZABETH II D G REG F D 1997

Reverse
The ordinary definitive design of fifty pence features Britannia on the reverse.
Britannia first appeared on Roman coins relating to Britain, re-appearing in 1672 under Charles II on halfpennies and farthings. She remained mainly on copper or bronze coins, before spreading onto the first copper pennies and twopences of 1797. When the reverse designs of the copper coins changed with decimalisation, Britannia moved to the fifty pence coins.
With the inscription:
FIFTY PENCE
50

Specifications

Version	Diameter	Alloy	Weight	Issue
Uncirculated - Larger*	30	Cupro-Nickel	13.5	58,680,000*
Uncirculated - Smaller*	27.3	Cupro-Nickel	8.0	58,680,000*
Proof - Larger*	30	Cupro-Nickel	13.5	100,000
Proof - Smaller*	27.3	Cupro-Nickel	8.0	100,000
Silver Proof - Larger*	30	0.925 Silver	13.5	20,137
Silver Proof - Smaller	27.3	0.925 Silver	8.0	1,632
Piedfort Silver Proof - Smaller	27.3	0.925 Silver	16.00	7,192

Notes on Table
Diameter = Diameter in millimetres
Weight = Weight in Grams
* Only issued as part of Royal Mint sets.

Prices & Availability

Silver Proof - Small

Piedfort Silver Proof - Small

Quantity	Rate	Buy
1	£35.00

1997 Coin Sets
1997 Coins Index
1997 Fifty Pence Two Coin Set

Order Form - UK
Order Form - USA
Order Form - EU
Order Form - Rest of World

If you want to find the value of a coin you own, please take a look at our page I've Found An Old Coin, What's It Worth?

If you have an enquiry about any of our 50 pence pieces, we'd be happy to answer you, but please note it may be quicker to telephone us. Please see the Contact Us page of our website.